Developing an understanding of the past through a historical lens requires the use of both primary and secondary sources.  Several experiences in the MS program at MSU, Mankato have progressively developed my own use of sources for historical research. Learning the proper application and role of primary and secondary sources has greatly improved the potential of my research.  When combined, they expand the possibilities for research and the ability to teach others.  My work with synthesizing these sources in research has allowed me to complete the second learning outcome by demonstrating critical thinking through analysis, interpretation and synthesis of primary and secondary sources.

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For my paper on Minnesota communities during the Civil War, I was able to use the synthesis of these sources to propel my research. This experience was my first exposure to the synthesis of sources at the graduate level.  While conducting my research for this course, it became clear to me that sources can generate an overwhelming amount of information.  Using both types of sources appropriately keeps a historian's work focused and relevant to their thesis.  There were multiple instances during this process where I encountered information in secondary sources that changed my interpretation of the primary sources.  These discoveries further developed my comprehension of synthesis and the importance of incorporating both sources in my research. 

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My research for U.S. China Relations, challenged my comprehension of source synthesis and required some unique approaches.  Primary and secondary sources for this particular course were fairly easy to locate.  My biggest obstacle however, was finding primary sources from the Chinese perspective. To overcome this challenge I used primary sources created by or in the U.S. and compared them with secondary sources.  This approach further developed my experience with synthesis since almost every primary source had to be vetted with scholarly opinions.  Doing so not only focused and guided my work but also resulted in a consistent use of both sources. 

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Early Modern Empires and Enlightenment was a very challenging utilization of synthesis.  Prior to this course I had no background or previous experience with the enlightenment.  Much of my graduate research has been prompted by an existing question about something within the context of a course.  Hence, I had to consult several primary and secondary sources to locate something of interest.  After consulting sources and receiving suggestions from Professor Biel, I was able to select a topic: Natural Religion.  My next major challenge was locating sources that were either written in english or translated.  Once I was able to locate these sources, I was then faced with synthesizing them in a manner that kept my research historical in nature rather than philosophical. 

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Understanding the relationship and roles of primary and secondary sources is essential to guiding a historian's research. It is where evidence from the past meets contemporary historical and scholarly dialogue.  Explaining to others why certain sources and methodologies are relevant creates awareness about the true scope of historical research.  As a museum professional, it is imperative to explain how historical information is authenticated.  Understanding the entire research process and communicating it in an engaging manner is necessary for the accurate presentation of information to the public.